If walking into gyms makes you anxious, read this!
In a perfect world, the hardest part about going to the gym is the workout itself. But for many of us, just getting yourself through the door can be the hardest part of all.
Gym anxiety is extremely common and gets in the way of many men and women achieving their healthiest and happiest self. If these phrases have ever been uttered in your own mind, then you my friend, have gym anxiety. AND, you are not alone.
“How do I even use this machine?”
“Am I doing this wrong?”
“I look so weak.”
“I’m sweating so much.”
“Are people watching me?”
“Is that person staring at me?”
“Are people laughing at me?”
“Is someone filming me?”
“Is this class going to be too hard for me?”
“I hope no one comes up to me to tell me what to do.”
Why do people get gym anxiety, and what can you do to help?
Gymxiety reason #1 - You are new to the gym
Unfamiliar situations can be a trigger for people who suffer with anxiety. If you are new to exercising in the gym, the fear of the unknown is stressful. The thoughts of "what if everyone else is fitter than me" or "people will judge me" is enough to stop you from coming to the gym.
The best way to rise above your fears of joining the gym for the first time is to:
Start with some personal training. Learn the basics first so when you step into the class environment you feel comfortable and confident in your form.
Join with a friend. Having a support person makes the whole experience less daunting. You can partner up and work through the sessions together.
Ask for a gym tour before you attend your class. Find out where the bathrooms are, the entrances are and water bubblers. That way when you attend your first session, you will feel right at home.
Gymxiety reason #2 - Crowds make you anxious
Gyms can be quite daunting during peak hour. We get it! If partnering up during weights sessions is not for you, be sure to attend one of our smaller class times (7:00 am, 12:00 pm. 4:30 pm & 5:30 pm)
We also offer open gym! This might be the perfect option for you. As we are predominantly class based, the gym is quite empty during the day between class hours. Come in and do the workouts on the screens in your own time and avoid the crowds.
Gymxiety reason #3 - You’re a woman wanting to use the typically male-dominated weight room
Well this one is easily solved. Join a female only gym. Join the strong women's club. Join First Base.
Gymxiety reason #4 - Body Image
Body image issues do not discriminate. Women and men of all ages can experience insecurities around their bodies. This can lead to anxiety around entering a gym. Some people who suffer from body image issues find gyms to be a place where they compare themselves to others.
Remember that everyone is there for the same reason. Everyone is on their own fitness journey and striving to become the best version of themselves. No matter where you are along that journey, you are in the right place and that is something to be praised for, no matter your size, age or fitness level.
The hardest part is getting yourself there. Once you get there you realise everyone is in their own world.
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